US7659833B2 - System and method for remotely controlling devices - Google Patents

Abstract

A system and a method for remotely controlling at least a first device based on operation of a foot pedal apparatus are provided. The foot pedal apparatus has a movable member. The system includes a first module configured to transmit a first RF signal in response to at least partial displacement of the moveable member of the foot pedal apparatus from a first operational position. The first signal has a first identifier. The system further includes a second module configured to receive the first RF signal and to transmit a second RF signal having the first identifier and a second identifier in response to the first RF signal. The system further includes a third module configured to receive the second RF signal and to control operation of the first device in response to the second RF signal.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to the following U.S. patent applications filed contemporaneously herewith: SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY CONTROLLING DEVICES, Ser. No. 11/194,998; DEVICE SELECTION MODULE AND METHOD FOR SELECTING DEVICES, Ser. No. 11/194,044; DEVICE CONTROL MODULE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING DEVICES, Ser. No. 11/194,997, the contents of which are each incorporated herein by reference thereto.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application relates to a system and a method for remotely controlling devices.

BACKGROUND

U.S. Pat. No. 4,156,187 discloses a remote control system for controlling devices. The system utilizes a first foot-actuated transmitter that transmits signals having one of three frequencies at a time that is received by a receiver for controlling one of three devices. A disadvantage with this system, however, is that when a second foot-actuated transmitter in another room transmits a signal having one of the three frequencies, the second foot-actuated transmitter could interfere with operation of the device. Further, the second foot-actuated transmitter could inadvertently control operation of the device when no operator is present in the room having the device.

The inventors herein have recognized a need for a system for controlling devices using first, second, and third wireless radio-frequency (RF) modules, where the third wireless RF module only responds to an RF signal having first and second identifiers associated with the first and second modules, respectively, for controlling the devices. As a result, inadvertent activation of the devices by extraneous RF signals is prevented.

SUMMARY

A system for remotely controlling at least a first device based on operation of a foot pedal apparatus in accordance with an exemplary embodiment is provided. The foot pedal apparatus has a movable member. The system includes a first module configured to transmit a first RF signal in response to at least partial displacement of the moveable member of the foot pedal apparatus from a first operational position. The first signal has a first identifier. The system further includes a second module configured to receive the first RF signal and to transmit a second RF signal having the first identifier and a second identifier in response to the first RF signal. The system further includes a third module configured to receive the second RF signal and to control operation of the first device in response to the second RF signal.

A method for remotely controlling at least a first device based on operation of a foot pedal apparatus having a movable member in accordance with another exemplary embodiment is provided. The method includes transmitting a first RF signal from a first module in response to at least partial displacement of the moveable member of the foot pedal apparatus from a first operational position. The first signal has a first identifier. The method further includes transmitting a second RF signal from a second module having the first identifier and a second identifier in response to the first RF signal. The method further includes controlling operation of the first device in response to the second RF signal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic of a system for remotely controlling devices including a foot pedal control system having a foot pedal apparatus, a device selection module, and a device control module;

FIG. 2 is a detailed schematic of the foot pedal control system and the foot pedal monitoring module ofFIG. 1;

FIGS. 3 and 4 are schematics of an alternate foot pedal apparatus that can be utilized with the foot pedal control system ofFIG. 1;

FIGS. 5 and 6 are schematics of another alternate foot pedal apparatus that can be utilized with a foot pedal control system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a schematic of the device selection module utilized in the system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a schematic of the device control module utilized in the system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a schematic of a transmission packet in an RF signal generated by the foot pedal monitoring module ofFIG. 2;

FIG. 10 is a schematic of a transmission packet in an RF signal generated by the device selection module ofFIG. 7;

FIGS. 11-13 are flowcharts of a method for training the device control module ofFIG. 8 for controlling a first device;

FIGS. 14-16 are flowcharts of a method for training the device control module ofFIG. 8 for controlling a second device;

FIGS. 17-20 are flowcharts of a method for controlling the first device utilizing the system ofFIG. 1; and

FIGS. 21-24 are flowcharts of the method for controlling the second device utilizing the system ofFIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the Figures, like reference numerals are used to identify identical components in the various views. Referring toFIG. 1, asystem10 for remotely controllingdevices18 and20 is illustrated. It should be noted that in an alternate embodiment, more than two devices can be controlled by thesystem10. Thesystem10 includes a footpedal control system12, a device selection module (DSM)14, and a device control module (DCM)16.

Referring toFIG. 2, the footpedal control system12 is provided to monitor an operational position of amoveable member61 of thefoot pedal apparatus62 and to transmit RF signals in response to displacement of amovable member61 from a first operational position. The footpedal control system12 includes the foot pedal apparatus40, a foot pedal monitoring module (FPMM)42, anair pump44, apneumatic switch46 orpressure sensor46′, a pneumatically controlleddental implement48, avalve50, andconduits52,54,56.

The foot pedal apparatus40 is provided to allow a user to displace themovable member61 for controlling devices. The foot pedal apparatus40 includes ahousing60, themovable member61, and apneumatic valve62. The foot pedal apparatus40 is connected to anair pump44 via theconduit52. Theair pump44 supplies pressurized air at a predetermined pressure throughconduit52 to thepneumatic valve62 in the foot pedal apparatus40. Thepneumatic valve62 is further operatively coupled to theconduit54. Theconduit54 extends from thepneumatic valve62 to thepneumatic valve50. Thevalve50 is further coupled to a pneumatically controlleddental implement48. Further, apneumatic switch46 or apressure sensor46′ is operatively coupled to theconduit54. Theswitch46 orpressure sensor46′ transmits a signal to I/O interface76 that is received by theprocessor70.

When afoot57 of a user displaces themovable member61, thepneumatic valve62 opens to propagate pressurized air fromair pump44 to thepneumatic valve50 for drivingdental implement48. Thevalve50 only opens when a user removesdental implement48 from a holding fixture (not shown). The inventors herein have recognized that foot pedal apparatus40 can be further utilized to remotely control a plurality of other devices. When at least partial displacement ofmovable member61 from a first operational position to a second operational position, opens or partially openspneumatic valve62, thepneumatic switch46 detects an air pressure level greater than or equal to a threshold pressure level and generates a signal that is received by the I/O interface76. In response to the signal from theswitch46, theprocessor70 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter78 to generate one or more RF signals as will be explained in greater detail below. Alternately, when thepressure sensor46′ is utilized instead of thepneumatic switch46, thepressure sensor46′ generates a pressure signal indicative of the pressure in theconduit54. When the pressure signal indicates an air pressure level greater than or equal to the threshold pressure level, theprocessor70 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter78 to generate one or more RF signals. It should be noted that the air pressure level in theconduit54 is greater than or equal to the threshold pressure level when themovable member61 at least partially opens thevalve62.

Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4, in an alternate embodiment of the footpedal control system12, the foot pedal apparatus40 can be replaced with afoot pedal apparatus100. Thefoot pedal apparatus100 includes ahousing102, amovable member104, and anelectrical switch106. Themovable member104 is operably coupled to theelectrical switch106. When the user'sfoot57 pivots themovable member104 from a first operational position (shown inFIG. 3) to a second operational position (shown inFIG. 4), theswitch106 is moved from an open operational position to a closed operational position, respectively. Thereafter, a port on the I/O interface76 detects a ground voltage signal on the respective port that is received by theprocessor70. In response to the ground voltage signal, theprocessor70 is configured to generate a control signal for inducing theRF transmitter78 to transmit one or more RF signals.

Referring toFIGS. 5 and 6, in an alternate embodiment of the footpedal control system12, the foot pedal apparatus40 can be replaced with afoot pedal apparatus120. Thefoot pedal apparatus120 includes ahousing122, amovable member124, and anelectrical switch126. Themovable member124 is operably coupled to theelectrical switch126. When the user'sfoot57 displaces themovable member124 downwardly from a first operational position (shown inFIG. 5) to a second operational position (shown inFIG. 6), theswitch126 is moved from an open operational position to a closed operational position, respectively. Thereafter, a port on the I/O interface76 to detects a ground voltage signal on the respective port that is received by theprocessor70. In response to the ground voltage signal, theprocessor70 is configured to generate a control signal for inducing theRF transmitter78 to transmit one or more RF signals.

In another alternate embodiment, the foot pedal apparatus40 can be replaced with a foot pedal apparatus having a moveable member operably coupled to a potentiometer. The potentiometer would output a voltage signal having an amplitude proportional to an amount of displacement of the moveable member from a first operational position. The voltage signal would be received by the I/O interface76.

Referring toFIG. 2, the foot pedal monitoring module (FPMM)42 is provided to monitor an operational position of themovable member61 of the foot pedal apparatus40. Further, theFPMM42 is provided to transmit one or more RF signals when the user displaces themovable member61 from a first operational position. For example, themodule42 can transmit the RF signal when the user displaces themovable member61 from the first operational position (shown inFIG. 2) to a second operational position (shown inFIG. 1). An advantage ofFPMM42 is that all of the communication betweenFPMM42 and the other modules insystem10 devices are “wireless” communications thus eliminating a plurality of communication wires from theFPMM42 to the plurality of devices being controlled. TheFPMM42 includes aprocessor70, a read-only memory (ROM)72, a random access memory (RAM)74, anEEPROM75, an input/output (I/O)interface76, theRF transmitter78, anantenna coil80, acapacitor82, anLED84, thepneumatic switch46 or thepressure sensor46′.

Theprocessor70 is provided to monitor signals from either thepneumatic switch46 or thepressure sensor46′ to determine when to generate control signals for inducing theRF transmitter78 to generate one or more RF signals. Further, theprocessor70 is configured to generate a control signal that is transmitted through the I/O interface76 to theLED84 for inducing theLED84 to a emit light when theRF transmitter78 is transmitting an RF signal. Theprocessor70 is operably coupled to the I/O interface76, theRF transmitter78, and to computer readable media including theROM72, theRAM74, theEEPROM75. It should be noted that the computer readable media utilized by theprocessor70 may be implemented using any of a number of known memory devices such as PROMs, EPROMs, EEPROMs, flash memory or any other electric, magnetic, optical or combination memory device capable of storing information, some of which represent executable instructions. TheROM72 and theRAM74 are provided to store software algorithms and associated information utilized by theprocessor70. TheEEPROM75 stores a unique FPMM identifier associated with theFPMM12. Theprocessor70 comprises any device that is capable of performing an arithmetic or logical operation. For example, theprocessor70 can comprise a microprocessor or a field programmable gate array, or the like. Theprocessor70 is operably coupled to a battery (not shown) or other external power source for supplying an operational voltage to theprocessor70.

TheRF transmitter78 is provided to transmit RF signals viaantenna coil80 in response to control signals received from theprocessor70. TheRF transmitter78 is operably coupled to a series combination of thecapacitor82 and theantenna coil80. In one embodiment, theRF transmitter78 transmits RF signals an low frequency (LF) frequency range (e.g., 30 Khz-300 Khz). In alternate embodiments, theRF transmitter78 can transmit RF signals in one or more other frequency ranges, including for example, (i) a very low frequency (VLF) range (e.g., 9 Khz-30 Khz), (ii) a medium frequency (MF) range (e.g., 300 Khz-3 Mhz), (iii) a high frequency (HF) range (e.g., 3 Mhz-30 Mhz), (iv) an ultra high frequency (UHF) range (e.g., 300 Mhz-3 Ghz), (v) a super high frequency (SHF) range (e.g., 3 Ghz-30 Ghz), and (vi) an extremely high frequency (EHF) range (e.g., 30 Ghz-300 Ghz). Further, in one embodiment, theRF transmitter78 can modulate each RF signal containing a transmission packet using a frequency shift keying (FSK) modulation technique. In an alternate embodiment, theRF transmitter78 can modulate each RF signal containing a transmission packet using any other known modulation technique, such as amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), and amplitude shift keying (ASK), or the like. Further, theRF transmitter78 can transmit pulsed RF signals for predetermined time intervals, such as 15 milliseconds for example.

Referring toFIG. 9, atransmission packet220 in each RF signal transmitted from theRF transmitter78 is illustrated. Thetransmission packet220 includes: (i) a preamble code, (ii) a synchronization code, (iii) a FPMM identifier (ID), a FPMM status code, and a checksum. The preamble code is utilized to wake-up and stabilize anRF receiver139 on theDSM14. In one embodiment, the preamble code comprises a 4-bit value. The synchronization code is utilized to allow an RF receiver to synchronize with theRF transmitter78 for decoding a transmission packet in a received RF signal. In one embodiment, the synchronization code comprises a 10-bit value. The FPMM ID is utilized to identify a transmission packet associated with theFPMM42. In one embodiment, the FPMM ID comprises a 20-bit value. The FPMM status code is utilized to indicate whether themovable member61 is displaced from a first operational position. When themovable member61 is displaced from the first operational position, the FPMM status code has a “0001” binary value (e.g., an activation command) indicating an “on” condition. Alternately, when themovable member61 is not displaced from the first operational position, the FPMM status code has a “0000” binary value (e.g., a de-activation command) indicating an “off” condition. In one embodiment, the FPMM status code comprises a 4-bit value. The checksum value is calculated based upon the FPMM ID, and the FPMM status code, using a checksum algorithm known to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that theprocessor70 stores thetransmission packet220 in a computer readable medium prior to transmission of thetransmission packet220 in an RF signal.

An advantage of the footpedal control system12 is that the foot pedal apparatus40 has a single movable member utilized to selectively control a plurality of devices. Thus, other foot pedal units having a plurality of movable members or pedals for controlling a plurality of devices are no longer needed. Thus, with the footpedal control system12, dental or medical professionals will not have to “search” for the correct pedal from a plurality of pedals with their feet to actuate a desired device, as done with other foot pedal units having a plurality of foot pedals. Further, a plurality of other foot pedal units each having a pedal for controlling a distinct device will no longer be needed. Thus, because the foot pedal apparatus40 can replace a plurality of other foot pedal units, a treatment room will have a less cluttered floor. Further, dental or medical professionals using the foot pedal apparatus40 can obtain a consistent “feel” or depression force for controlling multiple devices.

Referring toFIG. 7, theDSM14 is provided to receive one or more RF signals from theFPMM42, and to transmit one or more RF signals each having a transmission packet to theDCM16, for controlling devices operably coupled to theDCM16. TheDSM14 is further provided to allow a user to select one of a plurality of the switches that will be associated with a respective device operably coupled to theDCM16. TheDSM14 includes aprocessor130, aROM132, aRAM134, anEEPROM135, an I/O interface136, anRF receiver138, antenna coils140,142,144,capacitors146,148,150, anRF transmitter152, anantenna154, switches156,158,160, andLEDs162,164,166.

It should be noted that theDSM14 can be utilized with a plurality of FPMMs. Thus, a user can utilize theDSM14 in multiple treatment rooms wherein each room has a separate FPMM, because the RF signals transmitted fromDSM14 contain both a FPMM ID from a FPMM in a specific room and a DSM ID associated with theDSM14. Thus, the DSM can act as a master controller by only activating the DCM that is trained for an associated pair of IDs (i.e., a specific FPMM ID and DSM ID).

TheDSM14 has a training operational mode and a non-training operational mode. When theDSM14 enters the training operational mode and subsequently receives an RF signal from themodule12, themodule14 transmits an RF signal having a training transmission packet to theDCM16 such that theDCM16 can store a FPMM ID and a DSM ID associated with theFPMM42 and theDSM14, respectively. TheDCM16 will utilize the stored FPMM ID and the DSM ID to recognize transmission packets from theDSM14 for controlling specific devices coupled to theDCM16. When theDSM14 enters the non-training operational mode and subsequently receives an RF signal from themodule12, themodule14 transmits an RF signal having control information for controlling operation of theDCM16 and a device operably coupled to theDCM16.

Theprocessor130 is operably coupled to the I/O interface136, theRF transmitter152, theRF receiver138, and to the computer readable media including theROM132, theRAM134, and theEEPROM135. It should be noted that the computer readable media utilized by theprocessor130 may be implemented using any of a number of known memory devices such as PROMs, EPROMs, EEPROMs, flash memory or any other electric, magnetic, optical or combination memory device capable of storing information, some of which represent executable instructions. TheEEPROM135 stores a DSM ID associated with theDSM14. Theprocessor130 monitors an operational state (e.g., a closed operational state or an open operational state) of theswitches156,158,160 utilizing the I/O interface136. Further, theprocessor130 controls theLEDs162,164,166 utilizing the I/O interface136. Theprocessor130 is provided to decode transmission packets in RF signals received by theRF receiver138 from theFPMM42. Further, theprocessor130 is provided to generate transmission packets and control signals for inducing theRF transmitter152 to transmit RF signals including transmission packets to theDCM16 for controlling operation of theDCM16. Further, theprocessor130 is configured to enter the training operational mode when thetraining mode switch160 is moved to a closed operational position for transmitting RF signals having training information to theDCM16 such that theDCM16 can recognize subsequent RF signals from theDSM14. Further, theprocessor130 is configured to enter a non-training operational mode when thetraining mode switch160 is moved to an open operational position for transmitting RF signals having control information for controlling operation of theDCM16. Further, theprocessor130 is configured to determine when theswitch156 is moved to a closed operational position for selecting a first device operably coupled to theDCM16. Further, theprocessor130 is configured to determine when theswitch158 is moved to a closed operational position for selecting a second device operably coupled to theDCM16. Further, theprocessor130 is configured to generate a control signal for inducing theLED162 to emit light when RF signals are being received by theRF receiver138. Further, theprocessor130 is configured to generate a control signal for inducing theLED164 to emit light when an RF signal is being transmitted from theRF transmitter152. Further, theprocessor130 is configured to generate a control signal for inducing theLED166 to emit light when theprocessor130 enters the training operational mode. Theprocessor130 comprises any device that is capable of performing an arithmetic or logical operation. For example, theprocessor130 can comprise a microprocessor or a field programmable gate array, or the like. Theprocessor130 is operably coupled to a battery (not shown) or an external power supply for supplying an operational voltage to theprocessor130.

TheRF transmitter152 is provided to transmit RF signals viaantenna coil154 in response to control signals received from theprocessor130. In an embodiment, theRF transmitter152 transmits RF signals in a medium frequency (MF) range (e.g., 300 Khz-3 Mhz). In alternate embodiments, theRF transmitter152 can transmit RF signals in one or more other frequency ranges, including for example, (i) the VLF range (e.g., 9 Khz-30 Khz), (ii) the LF range (e.g., 30 Khz-300 Khz), (iii) the HF range (e.g., 3 Mhz-30 Mhz), (iv) the UHF range (e.g., 300 Mhz-3 Ghz), (v) the SHF range (e.g., 3 Ghz-30 Ghz), and (vi) the EHF range (e.g., 30 Ghz-300 Ghz). Further, in one embodiment, theRF transmitter152 can modulate each RF signal containing a transmission packet using a FSK modulation technique. In an alternate embodiment, theRF transmitter152 can modulate each RF signal containing a transmission packet using any other known modulation technique, such as AM, FM, or ASK, or the like. Further, theRF transmitter152 can transmit pulsed RF signals for predetermined time intervals, such as 15 milliseconds for example.

TheRF receiver138 is provided to receive RF signals from theFPMM42. TheRF receiver138 includes anRF receiver microchip139, antenna coils140,142,144, andcapacitors146,148,150. TheRF receiver microchip139 is electrically coupled atnodes167,169 to a parallel combination of thecapacitor146 and theantenna coil140. TheRF receiver microchip139 is electrically coupled atnodes170,172 to a parallel combination of thecapacitor150 and theantenna142. Further, theRF receiver microchip139 is electrically coupled atnodes174,175 to a parallel combination of thecapacitor148 and theantenna coil144. The antenna coils140,142,144 are positioned for receiving RF signals along at least one of three axes. In particular, a long axis of theantenna coil140 is disposed substantially perpendicular to a long axis of theantenna coil144. Further, a long axis of theantenna coil144 is disposed substantially perpendicular to a long axis of theantenna coil142.

Referring toFIG. 10, atransmission packet222 in each RF signal transmitted from theRF transmitter152 is illustrated. Thetransmission packet222 includes: (i) a synchronization code, (ii) an FPMM ID, (iii) a FPMM status code, (iv) a DSM ID, (v) a device selection ID, (vi) a training bit, and (vii) a CRC code. The synchronization code is utilized to allow an RF receiver in theDCM16 to synchronize with theRF transmitter152 for decoding a transmission packet in a received RF signal. In one embodiment, the synchronization code comprises a 7-bit value. The FPMM ID is utilized to identify a transmission packet associated with theFPMM42. In one embodiment, the FPMM ID comprises a 20-bit value. The FPMM status code is utilized to indicate whether themovable member61 is displaced from a first operational position. When themovable member61 of the foot pedal apparatus40 is displaced from the first operational position, the FPMM status code has a “0001” binary value indicating an “on” condition. Alternately, when themovable member61 is not displaced from the first operational position, the FPMM status code has a “0000” binary value indicating an “off” condition. The DSM ID is utilized to identify a transmission packet associated with theDSM14. In one embodiment, the DSM ID comprises a 20-bit value. The device selection ID is utilized to identify which device selection switch on theDSM14 has been moved to a closed operational position, and also which device is to be controlled by theDCM16. The training bit is utilized to indicate whether the transmission packet is a training transmission packet or not. When the training bit has a “1” binary value indicating the transmission packet is a training transmission packet, theDCM16 will associate a bi-directional switch therein and a device operably coupled to the bi-directional switch to the FPMM ID, the DSM ID, and the device selection ID. When the training bit has a “0” binary value indicating a transmission packet is not a training transmission packet, theDCM16 will control the bi-directional switch and the device operably coupled to the bi-directional switch, that are associated with the received FPMM ID, the DSM ID, and the device selection ID. The cyclic redundancy code (CRC) is calculated based upon the FPMM ID, the FPMM status code, the DSM ID, the device selection ID, and the training bit, using an algorithm known to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that theprocessor130 stores thetransmission packet222 in a computer readable medium prior to transmission of thetransmission packet222 in an RF signal.

Referring toFIG. 8, the DCM is provided to receive one or more RF signals from theDSM14 for controlling devices operably coupled to theDCM16. TheDCM16 includes aprocessor180, aROM182, aRAM184, anEEPROM185, an I/O interface186, anRF receiver circuit188, anantenna coil190, switches192,194,LEDs196,198,resistors200,202,204,206, and optically coupledbi-directional switches208,212.

Theprocessor180 is provided to control operation of thebi-directional switches208,212 to control operation of thedevices18,20 respectively, based on RF signals received from theDSM14. Theprocessor180 is operably coupled to theRF receiver circuit188, the I/O interface186 and to the computer readable media including theROM182, theRAM184, theEEPROM185. It should be noted that the computer readable media utilized by theprocessor180 may be implemented using any of a number of known memory devices such as PROMs, EPROMs, EEPROMs, flash memory or any other electric, magnetic, optical or combination memory device capable of storing information, some of which represent executable instructions. Theprocessor180 is configured to monitor an operational state (e.g., a closed operational state or an open operational state) of theswitches192,194 utilizing the I/O interface186, and to control theLEDs196,198 and thebi-directional switches208,212 utilizing the I/O interface186. Further, theprocessor180 is configured to decode transmission packets in RF signals received by theRF receiver circuit188 from theDSM14.

Theprocessor180 has a training operational mode and a non-training operational mode. In particular, theprocessor180 is configured to enter the training operational mode when one of the training mode switches192,194 is moved to a closed operational position. When thetraining mode switch192 is moved to the closed operational position and theRF receiver circuit188 subsequently receives a first RF signal having a first transmission packet with a training bit equal to “1” from theDSM14, theprocessor180 stores the FPMM ID, the DSM ID, and the device selection ID from the first transmission packet in theEEPROM185. Further, theprocessor180 associates the stored values from the first transmission packet with thebi-directional switch208 that is operably coupled to thedevice18. Alternately, when thetraining mode switch194 is moved to the closed operational position and theRF receiver circuit188 subsequently receives a second RF signal having a second transmission packet with a training bit equal to “1” from theDSM14, theprocessor180 stores the FPMM ID, the DSM ID, and the device selection ID from the second transmission packet in theEEPROM185. Further, theprocessor180 associates these stored values from the second transmission packet with thebi-directional switch208 that is operably coupled to thedevice18. When theprocessor180 decodes a transmission packet having a FPMM ID, a DSM ID, and a device selection ID associated with thebi-directional switch208, theprocessor180 generates a control signal for inducing thebi-directional switch208 to activate thedevice18. Further, theprocessor180 generates a control signal for inducing theLED196 to emit light. Alternately, when theprocessor180 decodes a transmission packet having a FPMM ID, a DSM ID, and a device selection ID associated with thebi-directional switch212, theprocessor180 generates a control signal for inducing thebi-directional switch212 to activate thedevice20. Further, theprocessor180 generates a control signal for inducing the LED198 to emit light. Theprocessor180 comprises any device that is capable of performing an arithmetic or logical operation. For example, theprocessor180 can comprise a microprocessor or a field programmable gate array, or the like. Theprocessor180 can be operably coupled to a battery (not shown) or another electric power source for supplying an operational voltage to theprocessor180.

The optically coupledbi-directional switch208 is provided to control operation of thedevice18 in response to a control signal from theprocessor180. In particular, theswitch208 activates thedevice18 in response to a control signal received from theprocessor180 via the I/O interface186. Further, theswitch208 de-activates thedevice18 when theswitch208 no longer receives the control signal from theprocessor180. Theswitch208 includes alight emitting element209 and an opticallyresponsive switching element210. As shown, the light-emittingelement209 is electrically coupled between anode201 and electrical ground. Further, aresistor200 is electrically coupled between the I/O interface186 and thenode201, and aresistor202 is electrically coupled between thenode201 and electrical ground. Further, thedevice18 is electrically coupled to the opticallyresponsive switching element210. In particular, when thebi-directional switch208 receives a control signal from theprocessor180, the light-emittingelement209 emits light inducing the opticallyresponsive switching element210 to activate thedevice18. Alternately, when thebi-directional switch208 does not receive the control signal from theprocessor180, the light-emittingelement209 stops emitting light inducing the opticallyresponsive switching element210 to de-activate thedevice18.

The optically coupledbi-directional switch212 is provided to control operation of thedevice20 in response to a control signal from theprocessor180. In particular, theswitch212 activates thedevice20 in response to a control signal received from theprocessor180 via the I/O interface186. Further, theswitch212 de-activates thedevice20 when theswitch212 no longer receives the control signal from theprocessor180. Theswitch212 includes alight emitting element213 and an opticallyresponsive switching element214. As shown, the light-emittingelement213 is electrically coupled between anode205 and electrical ground. Further, aresistor204 is electrically coupled between the I/O interface186 and thenode205, and aresistor206 is electrically coupled between thenode205 and electrical ground. Further, thedevice20 is electrically coupled to the opticallyresponsive switching element214. In particular, when thebi-directional switch212 receives a control signal from theprocessor180, the light-emittingelement213 emits light inducing the opticallyresponsive switching element214 to activate thedevice20. Alternately, when thebi-directional switch212 does not receive the control signal from theprocessor180, the light-emittingelement213 stops emitting light inducing the opticallyresponsive switching element212 to de-activate thedevice20.

Thedevices18,20 may comprise any electrically, pneumatically, magnetically, or hydraulically actuated device. For example,devices18,20 may comprise electrically, pneumatically, magnetically, or hydraulically actuated medical or dental devices. Further,devices18,20 may comprise one or more of the following devices: a drill, a dental chair whose chair position can be adjusted automatically, an infrared photo-optic imaging camera, a dental irrigator, an intra-oral camera, a laser, an air-abrasion unit, an electro-surgery unit, an ultrasonic teeth cleaning unit, a piezo-ultrasonic unit, an air polishing prophylaxis device, a gum depth measurement probe, a surgical microscope, a microprocessor controlled anesthetic delivery system, and an endodontic heat source device.

For example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise a torque control motor drill sold under the trademark Tecnika and is manufactured by Advanced Technology Research (ATR), located at Via del Pescino, 6, 51100 Pistoia, Italy, and sold in the United States by Dentsply Tulsa Dental at 5001 E. 68^th, Tulsa, Okla. 74136-3332. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any electrically controlled or pneumatically controlled drill.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise a dental chair sold under the trademark Priority® manufactured by A-DEC located at 2601 Crestview Drive, Newberg, Oreg., which provides elevational control of the chair, tilting of the back of the chair, and memory recall positions. Thus, the elevation position, tilting position, and other variable position adjustments could be controlled by the inventive control system. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any electrically controlled or hydraulically controlled dental chair or control unit associated with the dental chair.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise an infrared photo-optic imaging camera sold under the trademark CEREC® manufactured by Sirona Dental Systems located at Fabrikstrabe 31, 64625 Bensheim, Hessen, Germany, and sold in the United States by Patterson Dental Supply, Inc., located at 1031 Mendota Heights Rd., Saint Paul, Minn. 55120. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control any imaging camera that can be automatically or externally controlled to generate a digital image or a film image.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise a dental irrigator sold under the trademark Piezon® Master 600, manufactured by Electro Medical Systems located at 12092 Forestgate Drive, Dallas Tex., 75243. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any dental irrigator or dental irrigator control system that directs fluid under pressure therethrough.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise an intra-oral camera sold under the trademark Prism™, manufactured by Professional Dental Technologies, Inc., located at 2410 Harrison Street, Batesville, Ark. 72501, or the AcuCam® Concept IV manufactured by Gendex, a division of Dentsply International located at 901 W. Oakton St., Des Plains, Ill. 60018-1884. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any intra-oral camera (or video capture card or video capture computer associated with the camera) to generate, store, retrieve, display, or print a digital or analog video image.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise a laser sold under the trademark Odyssey™, manufactured by Ivoclar Vivadent Inc., located at 175 Pineview Drive, Amherst, N.Y. 14228. Alternately, the system could be utilized with a laser sold under the trademark Waterlase®, manufactured by Biolase Technology, Inc., located at 981 Calle Amanecer, San Clemente, Calif. 92673. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any other known laser.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise an air-abrasion unit sold under the trademark PrepStart™, manufactured by Danville Engineering, located at 2021 Omega Road, San Ramon Calif. 94583. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any other type of air-abrasion unit utilized in dental procedures, in medical procedures, or during processing or cleaning of manufactured goods.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise an electro-surgery unit sold under the trademark Hyfrecator® 2000, manufactured by ConMed® Corporation, located at 310 Broad Street, Utica, N.Y. 13501. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any other electro-surgery unit that utilizes electrical energy for removing tissue or bone.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise the ultrasonic teeth cleaning unit sold under the trademark Cavitron® 3000 manufactured by Dentsply International located at 901 W. Oakton Street, Des Plains, Ill. 60018-1884. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any other ultrasonic teeth cleaning unit.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise a piezo-ultrasonic unit sold under the trademark Spartan MTS™, manufactured by Obtura Spartan located at 1663 Fenton Business Park Court, Fenton, Mo. 63026. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any other piezo-ultrasonic unit that agitates or vibrates a tip for cleaning teeth or removing tooth structure. Piezo-ultrasonic units may have fluid cooled tips.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise an air polishing prophylaxis device sold under the trademark Cavitron® Prophy-Jet®, manufactured by Dentsply International located at 901 W. Oakton Street, Des Plains, Ill. 60018-1884. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any other air polishing prophylaxis device that uses compressed air for delivering a fluid and/or an abrasive compound out of a nozzle for cleaning teeth and gums.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise the gum depth measurement probe sold under the trademark Florida Probe®, manufactured by Florida Probe Corporation, located at 3700 NW 91^stStreet, Suite C-100, Gainesville, Fla. 32606. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any other gum depth measurement probe that can be automatically or externally controlled to take a gum depth measurement.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise a surgical microscope sold under the trademark OPMI® pico, manufactured by Carl Zeiss Surgical Inc., located at One Ziess Drive, Thornwood, N.Y. 10594. Alternately, theDCM16 could utilized with the surgical microscope sold under the trademark Protégé™, manufactured by Global Surgical Corporation, located at 3610 Tree Court Industrial Blvd., St. Louis, Mo. 63122-6622. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any other surgical microscope that includes one or more of: automatically controllable height adjustment, automatically controllable focusing, automatically controllable field of view size, viewing lights, and a camera associated with the surgical microscope.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise an anesthetic delivery system sold under the trademark The Wand™ II, manufactured by the Dental Division of Milestone Scientific located at 151 S. Pfingsten Road, Deerfield, Ill. 60015. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any other microprocessor-controlled anesthetic delivery system that delivers predetermined amounts of an anesthetic to a medical or dental patient.

Further, for example, one or more of thedevices18,20 can comprise an endodontic heat source device sold under the trademark System B HeatSource™ model 1005, manufactured by Analytic-Sybron Dental Specialties located at 1332 South Lone Hill Avenue, Glendora, Calif. 91740. Further, it should be noted that theDCM16 could be used to control operation of any other endodontic heat source device.

Referring toFIGS. 11-13, a method for training theDCM16 to respond to RF signals from theDSM14 for controlling thedevice18 will now be explained. The method can be implemented utilizing thesystem10 described above.

Atstep230, a user closes atraining mode switch192 on theDCM16 associated with an optically coupledbi-directional switch208 therein to induce theDCM16 to enter a training operational mode.

Next atstep232, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 energizes anLED196 in response to closure of thetraining mode switch192 and resets and starts a first timer.

Next atstep234, the user closes atraining mode switch160 on theDSM14 to induce theDSM14 to enter a training operational mode.

Next atstep236, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 energizes aLED166 in response to closure of thetraining mode switch160.

Next atstep238, the user closes adevice selection switch156 on theDSM14 to specify a first device selection ID having a “00001” binary value.

Next atstep240, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 energizes anLED162 in response to closure of thedevice selection switch156. TheLED162 is associated with thedevice selection switch156. Further, theprocessor130 resets and starts a second timer.

Next atstep242, the user at least partially displaces amoveable member61 of foot pedal apparatus40 from a first operational position. The foot pedal apparatus40 is operably coupled to theFPMM42.

Next atstep250, theprocessor70 in theFPMM42 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter78 to iteratively transmit a first RF signal in response to the displacement of themoveable member61 from the first operational position. In one embodiment, each first RF signal is in the LF frequency range. Further, each first RF signal includes: (i) a preamble code, (ii) a synchronization code, (iii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iv) an FPMM status code having a “0001” binary value indicating an “on” condition, and (v) a checksum.

Next atstep252, theprocessor130 makes a determination as to whether the second timer has a time value less then a second predetermined time value. If the value ofstep252 equals “yes”, the method advances to step254. Otherwise, the method advances to step270.

Atstep254, theRF receiver138 in theDSM14 receives at least one of the first RF signals from theFPMM42 when a position of theDSM14 is less than or equal to a threshold distance from theFPMM42. In one embodiment, the threshold distance is less than or equal to ten feet. Of course, in alternate embodiments, the threshold distance could be greater than ten feet.

Next atstep256, theprocessor130 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to the first RF signal: (i) preamble code=predetermined preamble code, (ii) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, (iii) FPMM status code=“1”, and (iv) checksum=calculated value. In this step, the calculated value corresponds to a calculated checksum value calculated by theprocessor130 based on at least a portion of the transmission packet in the first RF signal. If the value ofstep256 equals “yes”, indicating the foregoing conditions are present, the method advances to step258. Otherwise, the method returns to step252.

Atstep258, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 stores the FPMM ID from the first RF signal within theEEPROM135.

Next atstep260, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter152 to transmit a second RF signal in response to the first RF signal. Each second RF signal includes: (i) a synchronization code, (ii) an FPMM ID having “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iii) an FPMM status code having a “0001” binary value, (iv) a DSM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (v) a device selection ID having a “00001” binary value associated with thedevice selection switch156 on theDSM14, (vi) a training bit having a “1” binary value indicating a training RF signal, and (vii) a CRC code.

Next atstep262, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 makes a determination as to whether the first timer has a time value less than a first predetermined time value. If the value ofstep262 equals “yes”, the method advances to step264. Otherwise, the method advances to step270.

Atstep264, theRF receiver circuit188 in theDCM16 receives the second RF signal from theDSM14.

Next atstep266, theprocessor180 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to the second RF signal: (i) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, (ii) training bit=“1”, and (iii) CRC code=calculated value. If the value ofstep266 equals “yes”, indicating the foregoing conditions are present, the method advances to step268. Otherwise, the method returns to step262.

Next atstep268, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 stores in the EEPROM185 a first record associated with the first optically coupled bi-directional switch, including: (i) the FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (ii) the DSM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, and (iii) device selection ID having a “00001” binary value associated with thedevice selection switch156 on theDSM14.

Atstep270, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 exits the training operational mode and de-energizes theLED196.

Next atstep272, the user stops displacing themoveable member61 of the foot pedal apparatus40 from the first operational position, such that themoveable member61 returns to the first operational position.

Next atstep274, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 exits the training operational mode and de-energizes theLEDs162,166. Afterstep274, the method is exited.

Referring toFIGS. 14-16, a method for training theDCM16 to respond to RF signals from theDSM14 for controlling thedevice20 will now be explained. The method can be implemented utilizing thesystem10 described above.

Atstep280, the user closes atraining mode switch194 on theDCM16, associated with an optically coupledbi-directional switch212 therein, to induce theDCM16 to enter the training operational mode.

Next atstep282, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 energizes an LED198 in response to closure of thetraining mode switch194 and resets and starts a third timer.

Next atstep284, the user closes thetraining mode switch160 on theDSM14 to induce theDSM14 to enter a training operational mode.

Next atstep286, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 energizes theLED166 in response to closure of thetraining mode switch160.

Next atstep288, the user closes adevice selection switch158 on theDSM14 to specify a second device selection ID having a “00011” binary value.

Next atstep290, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 energizes anLED164 in response to closure of thedevice selection switch158. TheLED164 is associated with thedevice selection switch158. Further, theprocessor130 resets and starts a fourth timer.

Next atstep292, the user at least partially displaces amoveable member61 of the foot pedal apparatus40 at from the first operational position.

Next atstep294, theprocessor70 in theFPMM42 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter78 to iteratively transmit a third RF signal in response to the displacement of themoveable member61 from the first operational position. In one embodiment, each third RF signal is in the LF frequency range. Further, each third RF signal includes: (i) a preamble code, (ii) a synchronization code, (iii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iv) an FPMM status code having a “0001” binary value indicating an “on” condition, and (v) a checksum.

Next atstep296, theprocessor130 makes a determination as to whether the fourth timer has a time value less than the second predetermined time value. If the value ofstep296 equals “yes”, the method advances to step298. Otherwise, the method advances to step314.

Atstep298, theRF receiver138 in theDSM14 receives at least one of the third RF signals from theFPMM42 when a position of theDSM14 is less than or equal to a threshold distance from theFPMM42.

Next atstep300, theprocessor130 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to the third RF signal: (i) preamble code=predetermined preamble code, (ii) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, (iii) FPMM status code=“0001”, (iv) CRC code=calculated value. If the value ofstep300 equals “yes”, indicating the foregoing conditions are present, the method advances to step302. Otherwise, the method returns to step296.

Atstep302, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 stores the FPMM ID from the third RF signal in theEEPROM135.

Next atstep304, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter152 to transmit a fourth RF signal in response to the third RF signal. In one embodiment each fourth RF signal includes: (i) a synchronization code, (ii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iii) an FPMM status code having a “0001” binary value, (iv) a DSM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (v) a device selection ID having a “00011” binary value associated with thedevice selection switch158 on theDSM14, (vi) a training bit having a “1” binary value, and (vii) a CRC code.

Next atstep306, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 makes a determination as to whether the third timer has a time value less than the first predetermined time value. If the value ofstep306 equals “yes”, the method advances to step308. Otherwise, the method advances to step314.

Atstep308, theRF receiver circuit188 in theDCM16 receives the fourth RF signal from theDSM14.

Next atstep310, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to the fourth RF signal: (i) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, (ii) training bit=“1” and (iii) CRC code=calculated value. If the value ofstep310 equals “yes”, the method advances to step312. Otherwise, the method returns to step306.

Next atstep312, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 stores in the EEPROM185 a second record associated with the optically coupledbi-directional switch212, including: (i) the FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (ii) the DSM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, and (iii) device selection ID having a “00011” binary value associated with thedevice selection switch158 on theDSM14.

Next atstep314, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 exits the training operational mode and de-energizes the LED198.

Next atstep316, the user stops displacing themoveable member61 of the foot pedal apparatus40 from the first operational position, such that themoveable member61 returns to the first operational position.

Next atstep318, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 exits the training operational mode and de-energizes theLEDs164,166. Afterstep318, the method is exited.

Referring toFIGS. 17-20, a method for controlling thedevice18 utilizing theFPMM42, theDSM14, and theDCM16 will now be explained.

Atstep330, the user closes adevice selection switch156 on theDSM14 to select thedevice18 to be controlled.

Next atstep332, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 energizes theLED162 in response to closure of thedevice selection switch156.

Next atstep334, the user at least partially displacesmoveable member61 of foot pedal apparatus40 from a first operational position.

Next atstep336, theprocessor70 makes a determination as to whether themoveable member61 is displaced from the first operational position. If the value ofstep336 equals “yes”, the method advances to step338. Otherwise, the method advances to step356.

Atstep338, theprocessor70 in theFPMM42 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter78 to transmit a fifth RF signal in response to the displacement of themoveable member61 from the first operational position. In one embodiment, the fifth RF signal is in the LF frequency range. Further, the fifth RF signal includes: (i) a preamble code, (ii) a synchronization code, (iii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iv) a FPMM status code having a “0001” binary value indicating an “on” condition, and (v) a checksum.

Next atstep340, theRF receiver138 in theDSM14 receives the fifth RF signal from theFPMM42 when a position of theDSM14 is less than or equal to a threshold distance from theFPMM42. In one embodiment, the threshold distance is less than or equal to ten feet. Of course, in alternate embodiments, the threshold distance could be greater than ten feet.

Next atstep342, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 makes a determination as to whether a time interval between any two sequentially received fifth RF signals is less than a third predetermined time period. If the value ofstep342 equals “yes”, the method advances to step344. Otherwise, the method advances to step362.

Atstep344, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to a fifth RF signal: (i) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, and (ii) checksum=calculated value. If the value ofstep344 equals “yes”, indicating the foregoing conditions are present, the method advances to step346. Otherwise, the method returns to step336.

Atstep346, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 induces theRF transmitter152 to transmit a sixth RF signal in response to the fifth RF signal. In one embodiment, the sixth RF signal includes: (i) a synchronization code, (ii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iii) an FPMM status code having a “0001” binary value indicating an “on” condition, (iv) a DSM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (v) a device selection ID having a “00001” binary value associated with thedevice selection switch156, (vi) a training bit having a “0” binary value, and (vii) a CRC code.

Next atstep348, theRF receiver circuit188 in theDCM16 receives the sixth RF signal from theDSM14.

Next atstep350, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 makes a determination as to whether a time interval between any two sequentially received sixth RF signals is less than a fourth predetermined time period. If the value ofstep350 equals “yes”, the method advances to step352. Otherwise, the method advances to step368.

Atstep352, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to the sixth RF signal: (i) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, (ii) FPMM ID=“00001h”, (iii) FPMM status code “0001”, (iv) DSM ID=“00001h”, (v) training bit=“0”, (vi) CRC code=calculated value. If the value ofstep352 equals “yes”, indicating the foregoing conditions are present, the method advances to step354. Otherwise, the method returns to step348.

Atstep354, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 generates a control signal to induce the optically coupledbi-directional switch208 to activate or continue activation of thedevice18 operably coupled to the optically coupledbi-directional switch208. Afterstep354, the method returns to step336.

Referring again to step336, when a value ofstep336 equals “no”, indicating themovable member61 is not displaced from the first operational position, the method advances to step356.

Atstep356, theprocessor70 in theFPMM42 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter78 to transmit a seventh RF signal in response to themoveable member61 returning to the first operational position. In one embodiment, the seventh RF signal is in the LF frequency range. Further, the seventh RF signal includes: (i) a preamble code, (ii) a synchronization code,

(iii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iv) an FPMM status code having a “0000” binary value indicating an “off” condition, and (v) a checksum.

Next at step358, theRF receiver138 in theDSM14 receives the seventh RF signal from theFPMM42 when a position of theDSM14 is less than or equal to a threshold distance from theFPMM42.

Next atstep360, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to the seventh RF signal: (i) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, (ii) FPMM status code=“0000”, and (iii) Checksum=calculated value. If the value ofstep360 equals “yes”, indicating the foregoing conditions are present, the method advances to step362. Otherwise, the method returns to step358.

Atstep362, theprocessor130 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter152 to transmit an eighth RF signal in response to the seventh RF signal. In one embodiment, the eighth RF signal includes: (i) a synchronization code, (ii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iii) an FPMM status code having a “0000” binary value indicating an “off” condition, (iv) a DSM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (v) a device selection ID having a “00001” binary value associated with thedevice selection switch156, (vi) a training bit having a “0” binary value, and (vii) a CRC code.

Next atstep364, theRF receiver circuit188 in theDCM16 receives the eighth RF signal from theDSM14.

Next atstep366, theprocessor180 inDCM16 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present in the eighth RF signal: (i) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, (ii) FPMM ID=“00001h”, (iii) FPMM status code=“0000”, (iv) DSM ID=“00001h”, (v) training bit=“0” and (vi) CRC code=calculated value. If the value ofstep366 equals “yes”, indicating the foregoing conditions are present with respect to the eighth RF signal, the method advances to step368. Otherwise, the method returns to step364.

Atstep368, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 induces the optically coupledbi-directional switch208 to de-activate thedevice18 operably coupled to theswitch208. Afterstep360, the method is exited.

Referring toFIGS. 21-24, a method for controlling thedevice20 utilizing theFPMM42, theDSM14, and theDCM16 will now be explained.

Atstep380, the user closes thedevice selection switch158 on theDSM14 to select adevice20 to be controlled.

Next atstep382, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 energizes theLED164 in response to closure of thedevice selection switch158.

Next atstep384, the user at least partially displaces amoveable member61 of foot pedal apparatus40 from the first operational position.

Next atstep386, theprocessor70 in theFPMM12 makes a determination as to whether themovable member61 is displaced from the first operational position. If the value ofstep386 equals “yes”, the method advances to step388. Otherwise, the method advances to step406.

Atstep388, theprocessor70 in theFPMM42 induces theRF transmitter78 to transmit a ninth RF signal in response to the displacement of themoveable member61 from the first operational position. In one embodiment, the ninth RF signal is in the LF frequency range. Further, the ninth RF signal includes: (i) a preamble code, (ii) a synchronization code, (iii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iv) a FPMM status code having a “0001” binary value indicating an “on” condition, and (v) a checksum.

Next atstep390, theRF receiver138 in theDSM14 receives the ninth RF signal from theFPMM42 when a position of theDSM14 is less than or equal to a threshold distance from theFPMM42.

Next atstep392, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 makes a determination as to whether a time interval between any two sequentially received ninth RF signals is less than a fifth determined time period. If the value ofstep392 equals “yes”, the method advances to step394. Otherwise, the method advances to step412.

Atstep394, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to the ninth RF signal: (i) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, and (ii) checksum=calculated value. If the value ofstep394 equals “yes”, indicating the foregoing conditions are present, the method advances to step396. Otherwise, the method returns to step386.

Atstep396, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter152 to transmit a tenth RF signal in response to the ninth RF signal. In one embodiment, the tenth RF signal includes: (i) a synchronization code, (ii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iii) an FPMM status code having a “0001” binary value indicating an “on” condition, (iv) a DSM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (v) a device selection ID having a “00011” binary value associated with thedevice selection switch158, (vi) a training bit having a “0” binary value, and (vii) a CRC code.

Next atstep398, theRF receiver circuit188 in theDCM16 receives the tenth RF signal from theDSM14.

Next atstep400, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 makes a determination as to whether a time interval between any two sequentially received tenth RF signals is less than a sixth predetermined time period. If the value ofstep400 equals “yes”, the method advances to step402. Otherwise, the method advances to step418.

Next atstep402, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to the tenth RF signal: (i) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, (ii) FPMM ID=“00001h”, (iii) FPMM status code=“0001”, (iv) DSM ID=“00001h”, (v) training bit=“0” and (vi) CRC code=calculated value. If the value ofstep402 equals “yes”, indicating the foregoing conditions are present, the method advances to step404. Otherwise, the method returns to step398.

Atstep404, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 induces the optically coupledbi-directional switch212 to activate or continue activation of adevice20 operably coupled to the optically coupledbi-directional switch212. Afterstep404, the method returns to step386.

Referring again to step to386, when the value ofstep386 equals “no”, the method advances to step406.

Atstep406, theprocessor70 in theFPMM42 generate control signal to induce theRF transmitter78 to transmit an eleventh RF signal in response to themoveable member61 returning to the first operational position. In one embodiment, the eleventh RF signal is in the LF frequency range. Further, the eleventh RF signal includes: (i) a preamble, (ii) a synchronization code, (iii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iv) an FPMM status code having a “0000” binary value indicating an “off” condition, and (v) a checksum.

Next at step408, theRF receiver138 in theDSM14 receives the eleventh RF signal from theFPMM42 when a position of theDSM14 is less than or equal to a threshold distance from theFPMM42.

Next atstep410, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to the eleventh RF signal: (i) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, (ii) FPMM status code=“0000” and (iii) checksum=calculated value. If the value ofstep410 equals “yes”, the method advances to step412. Otherwise, the method returns to step408.

Atstep412, theprocessor130 in theDSM14 generates a control signal to induce theRF transmitter152 to transmit a twelfth RF signal in response to the eleventh RF signal. In one embodiment, the twelfth RF signal includes: (i) a synchronization code, (ii) an FPMM ID having a “00001h” hexadecimal value, (iii) an FPMM status code having a “0000” binary value indicating an “off” condition, (iv) a DSM ID having a “00011h” hexadecimal value, (v) a device selection ID having a “00011” binary value associated with thedevice selection switch158, (vi) a training bit having a “0” binary value, and (vii) a CRC code.

Next atstep414, theRF receiver circuit188 in theDCM16 receives the twelfth RF signal from theDSM14.

Next atstep416, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 makes a determination as to whether the following conditions are present with respect to the twelfth RF signal: (i) synchronization code=predetermined synchronization code, (ii) FPMM ID=“00001h”, (iii) FPMM status code=“0000”, (iv) DSM ID=“00001h”, (v) training bit=“0”, and (vi) CRC code=calculated value. If the value ofstep416 equals “yes”, indicating a foregoing conditions are present, the method advancesstep418. Otherwise, the method returns to step414.

Atstep418, theprocessor180 in theDCM16 induces the optically coupledbi-directional switch212 to de-activate thedevice20 operably coupled to theswitch212. Afterstep418, the method is exited.

The inventive system and method for remotely controlling devices provide a substantial advantage over other systems and methods. In particular, the system and method provide a technical effect of controlling devices using first, second, and third RF modules, where the third wireless RF module only responds to RF signals having first and second identifiers associated with the first and second modules, respectively, for controlling the devices. As a result, inadvertent activation of the devices by the third module due to extraneous RF signals is prevented.

While the invention is described with reference to the exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made an equivalence may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to the teachings of the invention to adapt to a particular situation without departing from the scope thereof. Therefore, is intended that the invention not be limited the embodiments disclosed for carrying out this invention, but that the invention includes all embodiments falling with the scope of the intended claims. For purposes of claim interpretation, the term “module” is defined as any device, component, or group of components, that can perform at least one task or operation. The use of the term's first, second, etc. does not denote any order of importance, but rather the term's first, second, etc. are to distinguish one element from another.

Claims (14)

1. A system for remotely controlling at least a first device based on operation of a foot pedal apparatus, the foot pedal apparatus having a movable member, comprising:

a first module configured to transmit a first RF signal in response to at least partial displacement of the moveable member of the foot pedal apparatus from a first operational position, the first signal having a first binary identifier associated with the first module, and a first activation binary command;

a second module configured to receive the first RF signal and to transmit a second RF signal having the first binary identifier, the first activation binary command, and a second binary identifier associated with the second module, in response to the first RF signal;

a third module configured to receive the second RF signal;

the third module further configured to compare the first and second binary identifiers in the second RF signal with first and second binary values, respectively, stored in a memory device of the third module;

the third module further configured to compare the first activation binary command with a first binary command value stored in the memory device; and

the third module further configured to activate the first device when the first and second binary identifiers correspond to the first and second binary values, respectively, and the first activation binary command corresponds to the first binary command value.

2. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the first module is further configured to detect at least partial displacement of the moveable member of the foot pedal apparatus by monitoring a pressure level in a conduit operably coupled to the foot pedal apparatus.

3. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the first module is further configured to detect at least partial displacement of the moveable member of the foot pedal apparatus by monitoring a displacement signal indicative of displacement of the moveable member.

4. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the first module is further configured to transmit a third RF signal having the first binary identifier and a de-activation binary command after transmitting the first RF signal when the moveable member is substantially at the first operational position;

the second module further configured to transmit a fourth RF signal having the first and second binary identifiers and the de-activation binary command in response to receiving the third RF signal;

the third module further configured to receive the fourth RF signal and to compare the first and second binary identifiers in the fourth RF signal with the first and second binary values, respectively, stored in the memory device of the third module;

the third module further configured to compare the de-activation binary command with a second binary command value stored in the memory device; and

the third module further configured to de-activate the first device when the first and second binary identifiers in the fourth RF signal correspond to the first and second binary values, respectively, and the de-activation binary command corresponds to the second binary command value.

5. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the first module is further configured to transmit a third RF signal having the first binary identifier after transmitting the first RF signal when the moveable member remains displaced from the first operational position;

the second module further configured to transmit a fourth RF signal having the first and second binary identifiers and the first activation binary command in response to receiving the third RF signal;

the third module further configured to receive the fourth RF signal and to compare the first and second binary identifiers in the fourth RF signal with the first and second binary values, respectively, stored in the memory device of the third module;

the third module further configured to compare the first activation binary command in the fourth RF signal with the first binary command value stored in the memory device; and

the third module is further configured to maintain activation of the first device during a first time period from at least receipt of the second RF signal to receipt of the fourth RF signal, if the first time period is less than or equal to a threshold time period and the first and second binary identifiers in the fourth RF signal correspond to the first and second binary values, respectively, and the first activation binary command in the fourth RF signal corresponds to the first binary command value.

6. The system ofclaim 5, wherein the third module is configured to de-activate the first device if the first time period is greater than a threshold time period.

7. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the first RF signal is transmitted at a frequency less than or equal to 160 kilohertz.

8. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the second RF signal is transmitted at a frequency within a frequency band of 260-470 megahertz.

9. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the first device comprises a dental implement or a medical implement.

10. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the first device comprises one of a drill, a microprocessor position-controllable dental chair, an infrared photo-optic imaging camera, a dental irrigator, an intra-oral camera, a video capture circuit, a laser, an air-abrasion unit, an electro-surgery unit, an ultrasonic teeth cleaning unit, a piezo-ultrasonic unit, an air polishing prophylaxis device, a gum depth measurement probe, a surgical microscope with controllable focusing adjustment, a microprocessor controlled anesthetic delivery system, and an endodontic heat source device.

11. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the first device comprises a video capture circuit, the third module operably coupled to the video capture circuit, the third module configured to receive the second RF signal and to induce the video capture circuit to store a video image in a memory in response to the second RF signal.

12. A method for remotely controlling at least a first device based on operation of a foot pedal apparatus having a movable member, comprising:

transmitting a first RF signal from a first module in response to at least partial displacement of the moveable member of the foot pedal apparatus from a first operational position, the first RF signal having a first binary identifier associated with the first module, and a first activation binary command;

transmitting a second RF signal from a second module having the first binary identifier, the first activation binary command, and a second binary identifier associated with the second module, in response to the first RF signal;

receiving the second RF signal at a third module;

comparing the first and second binary identifiers in the second RF signal with first and second binary values, respectively, stored in a memory device of the third module, utilizing the third module;

comparing the first activation binary command with a first binary command value stored in the memory device, utilizing the third module; and

activating the first device when the first and second binary identifiers correspond to the first and second binary values, respectively, and the first activation binary command corresponds to the first binary command value, utilizing the third module.

13. The method ofclaim 12, further comprising:

transmitting a third RF signal from the first module having the first binary identifier and a de-activation binary command after transmitting the first RF signal when the moveable member is substantially at the first operational position;

transmitting a fourth RF signal from the second module having the first and second binary identifiers and the de-activation binary command in response to receiving the third RF signal;

receiving the fourth RF signal at the third module;

comparing the first and second binary identifiers in the fourth RF signal with the first and second binary values, respectively, stored in the memory device of the third module, utilizing the third module;

comparing the de-activation binary command with a second binary command value stored in the memory device, utilizing the third module; and

de-activating the first device when the first and second binary identifiers in the fourth RF signal correspond to the first and second binary values, respectively, and the de-activation binary command corresponds to the second binary command value, utilizing the third module.

14. The method ofclaim 12, further comprising:

transmitting a third RF signal from the first module having the first binary identifier after transmitting the first RF signal when the moveable member remains displaced from the first operational position;

transmitting a fourth RF signal from the second module having the first and second binary identifiers and the first binary activation binary command in response to receiving the third RF signal;

receiving the fourth RF signal at the third module;

comparing the first and second binary identifiers in the fourth RF signal with the first and second binary values, respectively, stored in the memory device of the third module, utilizing the third module;

comparing the first activation binary command in the fourth RF signal with the first binary command value, utilizing the third module; and

maintaining activation of the first device utilizing the third module during a first time period from at least receipt of the second RF signal to receipt of the fourth RF signal, if the first time period is less than or equal to a threshold time period, and the first and second binary identifiers in the fourth RF signal correspond to the first and second binary values, respectively, and the first activation binary command in the fourth RF signal corresponds to the first binary command value.

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